What is it all about?

This project aims to support the Australian rubus (raspberry, blackberry) and strawberry industries by generating the efficacy, crop safety, and residue data needed to expand chemical control options for two major mite pests: two spotted mite (Tetranychus urticae) and broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus). These pests are significant threats to berry production, with current registered chemical solutions being limited, which increases the risk of resistance and constraining productivity. 

The project will conduct a series of field and protected cropping trials in strawberries and rubus crops, testing new crop protectant products against industry standards. Data generated will meet Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) requirements, supporting applications for minor use permits and label extensions. The outcomes will enable growers to access a broader suite of crop protection tools, strengthen resistance management, and improve productivity and sustainability in the berry sector. 

Key outputs include: 

• Efficacy, crop safety, and residue data from multiple field and protected cropping trials
• Reports and data packages suitable for APVMA submissions
• Regular milestone and final reports to Hort Innovation
• Communication of findings to industry stakeholders via Hort Innovation, supporting adoption and extension 

This project directly aligns with the berry industry’s Strategic Investment Plan, aiming to increase profitability, efficiency, and sustainability through innovative R&D and improved pest management.